What is the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?
In simple terms, both osteopaths and chiropractors tend to treat similar conditions with similar techniques. In the UK both are statutorily regulated with their own Acts of Parliament and their own General Councils
Both osteopathy and chiropractic share a common history and philosophy which set them apart from the more traditional allopathic medical fields. Rather than focusing on the individual components of the body, osteopaths and chiropractors view the body in a more holistic manner, as a self-contained, self-healing, fully interconnected unit. Case history taking and orthopaedic examination are very similar for both professions and both use movement palpation (feeling the spine as it moves) to assist in diagnosing where there are abnormalities of movement.
The main differences are that Chiropractors tend to focus on the spine and the alignment of vertebrae as the primary means to relieving pain and tension throughout the body. Their theory is that as the vertebrae shift and move with everyday activity, they can misalign ( subluxation) and interfere with the nerve messages travelling among them. This interference causes problems and frequently pain. As such, Chiropractors frequently rely on X-rays to determine misalignments.
Most Chiropractors employ a technique called “adjustment,” to correct the subluxation, where the joints in the spine are moved to bring about a small ‘pop’. The theory is that adjusting the vertebrae will allow it to return to its proper alignment along the spinal column and permit optimal nerve transmission.
Osteopaths on the other hand do not use subluxation theory and tend to work more on the dynamic system of the body and work to restore function, rather than the position of the vertebrae, in order to allow the body to achieve a ‘balancing’ (homeostasis) of the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. As such, X-ray investigation is not merited and Osteopaths tend to place more emphasis on the physical examination and will generally refer patients on for more diagnostic procedures if required.
Although Osteopathic manipulation consists of opening the joint surface which is almost identical to chiropractic adjustment it is not solely used. Around 50% of patients consulting an Osteopath receive manipulation whereas about 90% of patients receive an “adjustment” if they consult a Chiropractor.
Osteopaths employ a number of techniques in order to influence the body’s innate healing system. These include: soft tissue, muscle work, joint articulation and mobilisation. The specific treatment will depend upon the patient’s unique circumstances.
The length of treatment also typically varies between Osteopaths and Chiropractors. In general, Chiropractic appointments tend to be shorter as the practitioner focuses on adjusting the spine (this does not mean to say that Chiropractors don’t adjust areas other than the spine). However, Chiropractors tend also to see patients more frequently, as the muscles connected to a misaligned vertebra can pull the bone back out of place, and it may take a few adjustments for the spine to settle into its proper alignment.
Osteopaths tend to spend more time with a patient per visit, as their focus is somewhat broader and their treatment techniques are more varied and also encompass exercise, postural and general lifestyle factors. Osteopathic treatment also tends to be spaced out over a longer period of time.
The primary objective for both osteopaths and chiropractors is, most frequently, to relieve aches and pains. However, both treat more than just bones joints and soft tissues. By working with the nervous system and blood supply they are often able to influence all of the bodies systems. There is some favourable research evidence that it is possible, to alleviate the symptoms of a number of diagnosed medical conditions, such as stress, vertigo and migraine headache.*
*Effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report. Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2010, 18:3 doi:10.1186/1746-1340-18-3 Article URL http://www.chiroandosteo.com/content/18/1/3
